I see a lot of cache descriptions that state something to the effect of, “Please put the cache back exactly as you found it.”

I used to put this on my cache pages too, but I no longer do. Here’s why. I discovered that caches can slowly “creep” out from their original hiding positions because of the in-and-out, finding-and-hiding action of several cachers. This became very clear to me when I first checked on my cache, “The Shocking Truth About Henry.” One person leaves it 2 inches forward from its original position, the next person, trying to match the exact position, accidently leaves it another two or three inches forward. After several cachers visit, this process causes it to be left nearly a foot out from its original position, and that left it in the open and easily visible — all because each cacher is reluctant to “conceal” the cache because they are simply following instructions to replace it “exactly as they found it.”

I’ve found that the solution is to describe on the first page of the log book or somewhere in the cache how the container should be re-hidden. On the cache page you may state something such as “PLease be sure to conceal the container completely after you find it.” You may even want to include a photo inside the cache showing how it is to be hidden. That way there’s no doubt about whether it should be partially exposed, completely hidden, or out in the open.

What about the rest of you? Have you run into this problem? If so, what’s your solution?

[This message has been edited by kbraband (edited 12-30-2003).]